HomeAway is the world leader in vacation rentals with over 1 million listings. We offer the largest selection of properties for any travel occasion and every budget. We're committed to helping families and friends find a perfect vacation rental to create unforgettable travel experiences together.

Overview

Details

Property

house

Sleeps

4

Bedrooms

2

Bathrooms

1

Minimum Stay

2 - 5 nights

Description

Bridport House Rental Photos and Description

magnificent sunsets and stars, colorful, gas fireplace, canoe for two

Lake Champlain- - 20 minutes to Middlebury-- A cute, 2 bedroom sweet, colorful happy cottage full of books and art and sanity. NO T.V. - ORGANIC soap, shampoo, dishwashing liquid-- ONLY. gas fireplace, slate beach, stunning mountain sunsets, -- solitude...breath-taking star gazing, as this is one of the darkest areas in the Northern Hemisphere of the USA!- so say professional photographers who come here to photo shoot@ .canoe, flat bottom boat, kayak. - wireless, of course. full kitchen, everything you need including spices and Olive oil. Great for doggies!!! (I've signed up for automatic payment because that suits some people, but really like to chat with you over the phone beforehand and also happy with a check in the mail) But listen, no smokers. Even if you don't smoke inside, it's on your clothes, coming out of your pores... have to launder everything. sorry.... -- Private country road which dead ends... so no cars. Just off Vermont Bike touring route. The lake has weeds, not good swimming, but floating, boating, fishing is amazing. beautiful drive to Middlebury- galleries, college, bistros- not to mention TENNIS COURTS, both at the Middlebury Recreation Center, and Middlebury College! - waterfalls, hiking, Revolutionary forts across the bridge in NY State..plenty to do but this is a place most people don't want to leave. Finish your novel here, or start one. lake breeze keeps the bugs at bay. it's a fascinating slate beach for beachcombing- fossils, arrowheads..lots of firewood for big fires on the beach! - Doggies LOVE this place.!!!

Cozy furniture, great deck to grill and sit and eat and watch the mountains and the lake. Designed for romantics, bohemians, artists, bibliophiles, meditators with champagne glasses.

I am a writer and this place is quiet. i mean, quiet, except for the birds. And, as a native Vermonter, I can give you plenty of tips on where to go that others may not know about. This place loves to be full of life as it should be, and also has a special feeling to it. Maybe it's because the lake, so active, so changeable, is right at your door. And of course, it's Vermont.

Uptight people, or those that like to think inside the box, will NOT like this cottage. It's funky, artsy, colorful, eclectic. If there is a cobweb in the corner, say hello to the spider. It's a cottage on a lake- with loons, and eagles and foxes and, up the road - some cows!-- The wind blows through the windows, and in ten minutes there might be a bit of dust on the table. It is not a hermetically sealed tomb- you must go to The Marriott for that...

Silent night: Most places, you hear distant traffic, or some kind of man-made noise, a dull vibrating hum, so that although you feel like you are really in the country, you aren't. This is the country. You hear the wind, the crickets, the birds, the squirrels, a fish jumping, and the achingly beautiful train whistle moaning across the lake. It's amazing to sit on the deck and watch the geese and the sunset and hear yourself breathing. Martini on the deck, reading Thomas Merton or Henry Miller, the lovely viewing of sailboats drifting by and bird watching is spectacular. Two bald eagles nest nearby! quiet fishing at an great inlet across the lake. This part of the lake hasn't many cottages on it, you look North and see only trees for a couple of miles, so you don't feel like other people are breathing down your neck.

There are two neighbors hidden away up the road if you need to borrow a cup of sugar, but you would never know they're there and a cottage up the hill. Apple and berry picking in the late summer and fall. I know where the private swimming holes are up in the mountains if it gets really hot. Also a terrific river falls near Middlebury. -- Once in a while, a GREAT while, very rarely, but I want to mention it- a field mouse gets in the house -You can't keep them out all the time... period. Not in the fields of Vermont. ( I have some tiny electric things in the wall that emit a sound they hate. seems to be working--- )AND three times a year the farmers up the road spread manure on the fields. I can't prevent this either. Bridport, VT is a rural farm community. You won't be happy here if this bothers you. You WILL be happy here if you love to hike, canoe, bird watch, bike, sit and watch the sunset, play scrabble, read, write, cook, grill, take little day trips to Vermont towns, tour micro-breweries, sleep, have fires on the beach, build slate castles, do art, walk, talk to chipmunks. -- ***** Oh, please call me or e-mail directly. I like to chat a bit with potential guests so that I can answer questions in a more personal way!! I want everyone to be happy, to be thrilled!@!

About Laurel Casey

I grew up in Middlebury, and this house was where we kids escaped since I was in high school. We had some pretty great parties then, and now that my parents are gone, I treasure those memories greatly. My parents left the 'camp' to me, and being an artist, AND a city girl, I decided that the only way I could keep the cottage- was to redesign and renovate it- and rent it out to pay the taxes! My daughter visits, not often enough of course, and we enjoy our quiet time together here- scrabble, canoeing, campfire and marshmallows. I've met wonderful people who vacation here, and some have become long time friends! I thought it would be a bit of a headache, the renting, not being a business person, but it's been really FUN! I've enjoyed creating a cozy haven, and it makes me happy, and know it would make my parents happy, to know that people are having a great time in this special spot. I love it when guests have found an interesting piece of slate or a fossil, and leave it on the counter. I've had a few people who were real sticklers for perfection... usually catch on to them by their cryptic e-mails. One woman demanded the a tree that blocked her view of the lake be cut down. She said, 'Hell! I'll cut it down, give me a saw!' - I didn't want to kill the poor tree and trimmed it later.

Laurel Casey purchased this house in 1967

Why Laurel Casey chose Lake Champlain Valley

I continue from above- A third generation Vermonter, everybody is gone now, daughter in St. Louis, two brothers live far away- others are six feet under!- so it's just me, and my dog- holding on to our sliver of paradise! I spent most of my time in New York or Providence, being both painter and performance artist/cabaret singer. Not much work in these parts for the likes of me. As I travel the country I am beginning to realize how special Vermont is. I always took it for granted- the quiet, leaving keys in the car all the time, feeling safe, fresh air, the beauty and peace. And there is no reason to draw the curtains...ever...only the squirrels are around to peep in, and they could care less.

What makes this house unique

My parents chose this property, I think, because they felt a camp should be an escape hatch! they chose the boonies!- and now, all these years later, it's STILL the boonies- friendly neighbors round the bend. little path in front of the cottage, to a look out, then stairs to private slate beach. I tell my guests all the secret Vermont hide-away trails, brooks, swimming holes! I have had a few people who didn't have a bohemian bone in their body, and I could spot them the minute they got out of the car- a heavy, negative energy that just doesn't fit in this colorful, gorgeous, happy place. Camp Casey isn't perfect- you WILL see a cobweb!- there is no stopping them, so close to the lake and way out in the country. You WILL hear a screaching fox in the woods, and you will also see shooting stars, as the sky has no light pollution. I sometimes take a lawn chair down to the beach and lay back, say 4 in the morning, and watch the show. Mosquitos don't like the lake breeze, neither do black flies, so with a little bug spray you're good to go. I would rather have NO guests than unhappy guests or guests who didn't understand where they were headed, and who I didn't think would be a good match for the place. I don't want to ruin the loving energy of the house with people who are looking for the Ritz-Carlton.

Peace of mind when checking out through HomeAway

We'll back you with our Book with Confidence Guarantee™

You'll get comprehensive payment protection when checking out on our website

Middlebury Area Romantically Hip Private Lakefront

This was the most amazing cottage rental we have ever done. We thoroughly enjoyed the privacy, the water, the boat, the canoe, the sunsets, the breathe taking views, the laughs, the countless good night sleeps, the landlady and I could go on and on. We will definitely return next year and that is saying something for my husband who is generally not a cottage person. The water is great for swimming as long as you wear some water shoes, the fishing was great, bonfires on the beach memorable. The fact that you are renting somebody's home is such a plus and a really unique concept that we loved. I have never seen my dog so calm and relaxed with all the fresh air and swimming. Blissful!!! Vermont is beautiful and the people are so pleasant. We enjoyed several restaurants (The American Flatbread and Big Fatties in Burlington were two of our favourites) and the biggest selling point for my husband were the micro-breweries - the beer and the tours. Missing Vermont already!!

Beautiful location + cabin

The place was quaint, quiet and perfectly suited for a romantic retreat! We loved the artsy details and decorations and instantly felt right at home. The place was clean and well-kempt. The cabin is lakeside - the views are INCREDIBLE! I definitely recommend this place and I will be returning. Thanks Laurel!

bohemian, romantic, perfect getaway

Read the owner's description and you will get a flawless picture of the cabin (and of her :-). This cozy cottage totally lives up to its billing. It's secluded (but Middlebury and Vergennes are not far away). It's quiet, apart from the occasional early-morning fisherman speeding to his favourite spot and the lonesome, distant train whistle). All the basics are there (kitchen, beds, books, indoor plumbing, electricity, wifi), and it comes with all sorts of wonderful de luxe extras, like lake views, distant hills, passing herons, and nearby eagles. We paddled around on the lake, relaxed on the stony beach, took day trips, and slept soundly all night through. The owner's eclectic decoration scheme charmed us (including the the fairy lights everywhere), and we felt comfy and at home until (sadly and far too soon) we had to pack and go home. We've already recommended Camp Casey to local friends who need a place to get away from the big city (*smile* that is, Burlington), and we'd recommend it to anyone else who wants a quiet, funky place to enjoy the lake.

Artsy getaway offers sumptuous views and relaxation

Sun set on a long journey made longer by heavy traffic, but when we finally arrived at this lakeshore getaway, all our stresses melted away. Twinkling lights greeted us along the walkway to the cottage, while dusk shimmered on Lake Champlain. We opened the door to a stimulating, unconventional, and creative atmosphere. The playful mismatch in the cottage invited us to relax and settle in. My husband and I spent the next 48 hours unplugging and unwinding at this charming and magical home. The view from the deck is breathtaking, and from it we we took in the riot of fall colors from early morning until nightfall. The vibrant colors, the ever-changing light of the sun on the lake, and the moody gray of the slate along the shoreline made for fabulous photo ops. We walked. Hunted and found fossils (too many to carry back all!). Took out the kayak and later, the flat bottom boat, both available for guests to use. We sipped wine on the deck while the sun dissolved behind the mountain on the opposite shore. We cooked simple meals to enjoy while gazing out at a never-tiring view. When it grew dark, we headed inside and lit the gas wood stove. Our little dog stretched himself out beside the fire and enjoyed his time here as well. We relaxed on the generous sofa and armchairs and leafed through the collection of eclectic books available. This simple, artsy cottage, tucked away from the outside world, offers time—time to talk and laugh and get to know oneself and each other again.

There is no television here. If you’re looking for a sterile, chrome-and-glass, high-tech environment, then better look elsewhere. This is a home filled with art and books and coziness. It’s a place that asks you to be forgiving and independent and open. The hostess is very responsive and friendly. Read her description carefully and understand it, and you will not be disappointed.

A Beautiful, Serene Getaway.

I had a dream of spending a peaceful, pressure-free week in a lakeside cottage with my dog. That dream came true at Laurel's lovely. slightly Bohemian home, which is ON - not near, but RIGHT ON - Lake Champlain. The cottage itself is beautiful - you feel that it really is someone's home, not just a vacation rental. It is decorated with Laurel's original artwork and family photographs, and it is full of color and light. It has everything you need, but it's not fancy or luxurious; it's comfy. The porch, which runs the length of the house, provides a spectacular view of the lake - a great place for breakfast, cheese and wine, barbecue, reading, or taking photos of the sunset.

Laurel is a great hostess. She welcomed me after I arrived, gave me tips on places to go, and even loaned me her yoga mat, so that I could do yoga on the porch in the morning!

My dog loved it there. In fact, she seems a bit depressed to be back home.

I thought I was going to be in the absolute middle of nowhere, and I felt that I was - and I wasn't. I was not isolated the way I thought I would be. There are neighbors. Yet I had complete privacy, and I had to drive 6 miles to pick up a quart of milk at the general store. So, private, but not completely isolated, which I found perfect.

I can't say enough good things about my experience. However, I would caution that if your idea of a vacation is at a deluxe rental with all the modern conveniences and trappings, this is not the place for you. If you want to be close to all the nice restaurants and shops, maybe you should stay in MIddlebury, which is only about 20 minutes away. Here, you just sort of kick back, watch the mist lifting off the lake in the early morning, plan a hike, and figure on either stopping somewhere for dinner on the way home or bringing it back with you. You don't want to have to much of an agenda. You can take a canoe out onto the lake, watch as a pair of herons (or are they cranes?) fly past you, and play fetch with your dog on the beach.

Leave the City Behind!

Two New Yorkers spent a lovely week on the lake, bbqing on the grill, canoeing upstream, cooking hot dogs over a bonfire on the beach, swimming, kayaking and lots of just lazing around and leaving the city behind. Great bird watching: an osprey nests nearby and we watched him hunt. Also saw great blue herons, baltimore orioles, hummingbirds, harriers and sandpipers to name a few. Lots of spiders. A train passes by somewhere, unseen, across the lake and blasts its horn a few times a day - bring earplugs if you are a light sleeper. Don't forget a can opener and cooking oil.

Submitted: Aug 23, 2016

Stayed: Aug 2016

Source: VRBO, from HomeAway

Owner's Response: What? Did somebody steal the can openers and use all the cooking oil!? HORRORS! And that Train Whistle across the lake, the Amtrak Adirondack? Dares to go to and from Montreal 3 times every DAY!!!?? NIGHTMARE!!!

6 miles from the Champlain Bridge to New York State and Revolutionary historic forts. A ten minute drive takes you to spectacular hiking, twenty minutes to the Appalachian Trail. Directly on Vermont Cycling route. Bass and perch fishing is excellent. Larger boat access 1/2 mile south. Flat bottom fishing boat available.Middlebury is sophisticated - up-scale quaint, with farmers markets, outdoor concerts, theater, great restaurants, galleries. A few miles further and you are heading up towards moose and mountains. Great beach combing. -- Buffalo and Alpaca farms, world famous Morgan Horse Farm, Robert Frost trail. The lake has some weeds, certainly swimmable but I would suggest driving to a nearby clean-as-a-whistle swimming hole in the mountains where you can drink the water as you swim.

Other Activities: great bass fishing, glorious hikes, talk to each other, watch the birds, read, write a book, long walks, apple picking, Sheldon museum in Middlebury, Famous Shelburne Museum in Shelburne - across the bridge, New York State, revolutionary forts- lots of history. Most guests just love to sit and gaze at the lake, cook out, have fires on the beach, enjoy the quiet.

Ski: 25 miles to a great ski area that is not crowded like the biggies. Middlebury College Snow Bowl. Great trails and good rates, especially mid-week. snow shoeing and cros country is a mind blower thought the trees. TAM- Trail Around Middlbury - gorgeous.

-Simple, cozy- lots of books. Sleeping is beyond words here, with the silence, or crickets and birds, and the intermittent moan of a train which makes its way up the other side of the lake to Montreal in the night, and morning.

Entertainment:

Books ...

Games ...

Games for Kids

Radio

Satellite / Cable ...

Outside:

Beach Chairs

Binoculars

Boat ...

Boat Dock

Boat with Paddles

Canoe

Deck / Patio ...

Fish Cleaning Table

Golf ...

Kayak / Canoe ...

Large Cooler

Outdoor Grill

Outdoor Grill Gas

Tennis ...

Terrace

Unscreened Porch / Veranda

Walkway to Water

Wood Deck

7 garden chairs

8 beach chairs

Suitability:

Events Allowed

Long-term Renters Welcome

non smoking only ...

not suitable for children ...

pets considered ...

suitable for elderly or infirm

Attractions:

autumn foliage

churches

cinemas

coin laundry

forests

library

live theater

museums

nude beach

pond

recreation center

restaurants

waterfalls

winery tours

Leisure Activities:

antiquing

beachcombing

bird watching

horseback riding

paddle boating

scenic drives

sight seeing

sledding

walking

Sports & Adventure Activities:

cycling

fishing

fly fishing

freshwater fishing

golf

golf privileges optional

hiking

hunting

ice skating

mountain biking

mountain climbing

mountaineering

skiing

sound/bay fishing

water tubing

Notes:

Country laundromat ten miles away and you can drop it off. This septic country lake front system is fragile. Water conservation is a muThinking of getting washer-dryer and I will if it seems to matter to people. I ask that people bring their own linens if they can. This is country living so why not beat your clothes on the beach rocks? It's better than a gym work-out. Speaking of a work-out. There are huge beautiful slate rocks you can carry up the bank, and getting in the water on a float and pulling up the weeds will really work up your appetite. You can also walk for a mile up or down the beach, very very interesting beach, tree formations around the slate, little hide-a-way places. OR, you can go into the woods and collect firewood! Just wear trousers. OR, you can follow the creek up into the back woods which will take you to a cow pasture with cows in it. They will not bite you. I like to row the boat into the middle of the lake late at night and float and watch the shooting stars